Columnist: Teresa Hill

Who needs it?

By Teresa Hill

For the Journal-Advocate

Posted:
08/19/2013 10:01:10 AM MDT

Teresa Hill For the Journal-Advocate

Over the last several months I have been asked some interesting questions. Most questions are directed toward acupuncture and what conditions it might help. I treat a wide range of patients that suffer from an array of maladies.

Can acupuncture help the sinuses? Well, yes it certainly can. Needles are inserted on the acupuncture points that course through the sinuses. The treatment is specific for the meridian that is out of balance.

Can acupuncture help tendonitis? Yes it can. Once again the joint that is involved is evaluated. The meridians that course through the joint are evaluated and then treated accordingly. Needle insertion and the use of moxibustion therapy are generally indicated. When moxa is used it creates a very soothing and warm feeling. This adds energy to the acupuncture points and gets the energy moving as well. Moving energy throughout the body is the main goal.

Acupuncture can help with all types of back and neck pains. What about neurological conditions such as MS or other neurological conditions? Acupuncture is very beneficial to use when the body is out of balance. Establishing a more normal energy flow can enhance the recuperative powers of the body. If you have been given a diagnosis that you have a disease process, then I would suggest that you arm yourself with as much knowledge as is possible and with every treatment option that is available. Doing nothing and waiting to see are just not smart options. Participate in your health care and you will be surprised how far it will take you.

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Acupuncture can work miracles on acute sprains and strains of the wrist, ankles, knees, etc. Early management of an acute injury can shorten the side effects of an injury. Moxibustion with needles and electrical stimulation is a wonderful adjunct to pain in the joints.

Headaches, sinus pressure, shoulder pain and radiating pains can be improved by acupuncture. I hope by now you are getting the picture. Acupuncture can help many different kinds of ailments from both acute and chronic standpoints.

Using herbs in between acupuncture treatments can be very effective. Herbs are either warming or cooling in their effects on the body. Selecting an herb that is appropriate is of utmost importance. Taking a Yin herb when you needed an Yang herb can send the body into a tailspin and cause imbalance. Looking at the tongue and checking the pulses is a fine indicator for determining the herb needed. In addition to the pulses and tongue there are certain signs and symptoms that indicate the nature of your illness. Out of the mouths of our patients comes the true diagnosis. Carefully listening to our patients is one of the most important aspects to arriving at a correct diagnosis.

Are acupuncture and herbal therapies right for you? Probably. Most people can benefit from their therapeutic effects. Attaining a higher level of health ultimately leads to more energy. Having more energy is what it is all about.

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